I’ve grown apart from trap as a genre over the years, which is exactly why DON’T BE DUMB caught me off guard in the best way. This album feels like the kind that rewards time and attention, one you keep coming back to and notice something new with each listen.
After such a long wait, A$AP Rocky could have easily played it safe, but instead he delivers a project that feels expressive, confident and, most importantly, fun. It sounds like an artist who trusts his instincts completely rather than chasing expectations.
What stood out to me immediately was the production. The album pulls from so many genres without ever feeling forced. There are clear nods to the hazy atmosphere of LIVE.LOVE.A$AP, the grandeur of Long.Live.A$AP, and the experimental mindset of Testing, but nothing here feels recycled. Trap drums sit alongside psychedelic textures, punk guitars and moments of jazz influence, all woven together in a way that feels intentional. It is not polished to the point of being sterile, and that roughness gives the album personality.
The rollout made “PUNK ROCKY” hit even harder. As the single released before the album, it set the tone perfectly. It is easily one of my favourite tracks here. The distorted guitars and aggressive energy tap straight into Rocky’s rebellious side, and it feels like him having fun while pushing against expectations. When the album dropped, the song still felt fresh, and it works even better in the context of the full project. Tracks like “Stole Ya Flow” bring back his sharp confidence, while smoother cuts like “Whiskey (Release Me)” slow things down and add emotional depth.
Lyrically, Rocky leans more into mood and delivery than dense storytelling, but his charisma carries everything. He sounds comfortable in his skin and aware of where he stands culturally. DON’T BE DUMB is not flawless, but its ambition and personality make it incredibly engaging. For me, it is a strong, exciting chapter in Rocky’s discography and proof that he is still evolving on his own terms.
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